Join Fox News for exclusive access to premium content that includes a variety of select articles, absolutely free when you register with your account.
By providing your email address and clicking continue, you acknowledge your agreement to Fox News’ Terms of Use and Privacy Policy, which also includes our Notice of Financial Incentive.
Please make sure to enter a valid email address to proceed.
If you’re facing any issues, click here for assistance.
NEW: You can now listen to Fox News articles being read to you!
A little over a year ago, I made the decision to become a Republican.
As the mayor of Dallas, Texas, the decision to switch parties put a target on my back, leading to mockery from Democrat leaders who sought to undermine my reasoning.
Looking back, Democrats have missed a crucial lesson from my departure—one that resonates with many voters of color who are leaving the party. The disturbing trends of chaos, financial struggles, and cultural decline linked to Democrat policies have driven many away, including myself.
TRUMP HHS COULD REVERSE BIDEN-HARRIS POLICIES ON GENDER TREATMENTS FOR MINORS
President-elect Donald J. Trump acknowledged these pressing concerns, which contributed to the Democrats’ loss in the elections. This reality was further underscored by his historic win, characterized by remarkable support from young Hispanic and Black voters.
Eric L. Johnson, the 60th mayor of Dallas, Texas, has a candid message for his former political allies.
My former colleagues in the Democrat Party remain oblivious to the significant lessons of recent electoral outcomes. Trump’s rhetoric aligns with the hopes and aspirations of our communities, focusing on tangible issues rather than just fears about liberal governance. Our community longs for economic success, access to quality education, and the ability to enjoy life fully, all while demanding law and order and lower taxes.
Dallas is now enjoying its fourth consecutive year of decreasing violent crime due to my advocacy for increased investment in public safety, which stands in stark contrast to the “defund the police” movement embraced by many Democrats.
We observed a tangible shift away from Democrats in communities that traditionally voted blue. Trump’s ability to engage voters where others saw insurmountable barriers transformed expectations, particularly in historically Democratic strongholds.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE FOX NEWS OPINION
The election results clearly illustrated a changing landscape, with Trump’s support noticeably increasing in pivotal urban areas like Chicago and Philadelphia, marking a significant turn in political allegiance among voters.
Even in typically liberal California, voters voiced their discontent regarding rising crime, pushing propositions to increase penalties for such offenses, signaling a desire for a safer environment.
Like most Americans, we aspire to wealth, home ownership, quality education and the freedom to live our lives. We want law and order, lower taxes, peace through strength and leaders with resolve. And we’re not anti-immigrant but oppose open borders and illegal immigration that strains our social services and allows a criminal element into our communities.
To summarize the sentiment: voters are increasingly frustrated with a Democrat Party that seems more focused on superficial politics than on meeting genuine needs.
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
President Trump’s mission is unmistakably clear—he seeks to Make America Great Again, recognizing that the revival of urban America is integral to achieving this vision. He has demonstrated a commitment to addressing critical issues affecting cities, aiming to ensure they thrive.
As this vision unfolds, working-class Americans will again find their place in urban environments and within the Republican Party, just as I have.
**Interview with Eric L. Johnson, Mayor of Dallas, Texas**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Mayor Johnson. Recently, you made headlines with your decision to switch parties to the Republican side. Can you tell us what motivated this significant change?
**Eric L. Johnson:** Absolutely. The decision was not taken lightly but stemmed from a deep concern for the direction of the Democratic Party. Over the past few years, I’ve witnessed trends in violence, economic decline, and cultural shifts that I believe are tied to the policies being promoted by my former party. These issues are not just political for me; they directly impact the communities I represent.
**Interviewer:** You’ve mentioned a growing disconnect between the Democratic Party and voters of color. Can you elaborate on that?
**Eric L. Johnson:** Certainly. Many voters of color are feeling abandoned by the Democrats, who seem to focus more on winning elections than addressing the actual needs of the community. There’s a clear desire for policies centered around economic growth, quality education, and public safety—issues that have been overshadowed by other political narratives.
**Interviewer:** In your experience as mayor, what successes have you seen that you believe are a reaction to your new approach?
**Eric L. Johnson:** In Dallas, we’ve witnessed our fourth consecutive year of declining violent crime rates, which I attribute to increased investments in public safety. This stands in stark contrast to the “defund the police” movement that has gained traction among some Democrats. People want solutions, not slogans, and I’m proud to champion that.
**Interviewer:** You’ve referred to former President Trump’s messaging resonating with your community. What aspects of his policies do you believe are connecting with voters?
**Eric L. Johnson:** Trump’s focus on tangible issues, like law and order, economic opportunities, and lower taxes, resonates deeply with our community. Voters want to feel safe, supported, and empowered to thrive. His approach seems to align with those aspirations more than what we’ve seen from the Democratic platform lately.
**Interviewer:** As the political landscape continues to evolve, what message do you have for both Republicans and Democrats?
**Eric L. Johnson:** For Republicans, I encourage inclusivity and understanding of the diverse needs within our communities. For Democrats, the message is clear: there’s a crucial lesson to be learned from recent electoral outcomes. Ignoring the valid concerns of voters—especially those who traditionally voted blue—could cost them greatly at the polls in future elections.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Mayor Johnson. It’s clear you’re passionate about serving your community and seeking real change.
**Eric L. Johnson:** Thank you for having me. It’s vital we keep these conversations going to bridge the gaps and foster a better future for all.
